Ever since I was a little girl watching movies I had no business watching (Pretty Woman), lol, I noticed Julia Roberts quickly became one of my favorite actresses. She always takes on interesting roles that usually is challenging some stereotype. There’s one film that comes to mind as I write this article and it’s Mona Lisa Smile, starring Julia Roberts of course. I was nine or ten when the movie came out, but I remember my mother watching it and repeating how important it was for all women (and men) to see it. Two minutes in and I was already asking can we watch something else, lol. Not even my love for Julia could keep me watching. At the time I didn’t understand and couldn’t relate. Two decades later and Mona Lisa Smile is easily one of my favorite films, period.
For those who are not familiar with the film, IMDB describes Mona Lisa Smile as the story of “A free-thinking art professor teaches conservative 1950s Wellesley girls to question their traditional social roles.” This was monumental because women were taught to only have one goal and that was to be a wife. That’s it. In the spirit of not giving any spoilers, with that description and small bit of information, you can see how a free thinking woman could be problematic.
Whereas in the past women have been ornamental and decorative, this is a new day and age. Women are becoming more verbal and recognizing we have options. Let’s take a journey through time to see the evolution of women.
Using the theme of television, let’s examine the “woman’s role” throughout time, starting with the 1950’s or for the sake of this article, the “June Cleaver” Era.
June Cleaver Era
“Yes Dear. Whatever You Say””: In the ‘50’s, women’s main function was to be subservient to their husband. These women were stay at home wives, cooked three meals daily, washed and folded laundry, went grocery shopping, and managing the children ( if there were any) all the while maintaining a neat and “lady-like” appearance. Women during this time only wore skirts and dresses; no woman would dare be caught wearing, let alone buying pants. Her hair must always been done, light makeup, and
always wearing heels. A woman was to do everything to maintain this portrait of perfection, always smiling and in agreement with whatever a man did or said.
Mary Tyler Moore Era
“I’m a Working Woman Now”: In the ‘70’s divorce became less taboo and a more common thing resulting in single mother homes. This was also the era of latchkey kids. Women now, were in the workforce and pursuing higher education for employment and career advancement. This point is necessary to mention because earlier there was the mention of Mona Lisa Smile (the ‘50’s) and during the era women only attended college to find a husband; once there were engaged or married, many of the women would drop out of college. Mainly women were working administrative and clerical positions, but there were making their marks. Women went from only being homemakers to working women, but it doesn’t end there.
Clair Huxtable Era
“You Can Have It All”: The ‘90’s was the era of woman not having to choose between having a successful career and a loving family; she could have both. The workforce was filled with women. Not only had more women began working, but they also were in positions of leadership. After working an eight hour shift women would go home and spend time with her family. Now there wasn’t as heavy of an expectation that the woman had to cook dinner. Ordering takeout was becoming the new norm.
The Millennial Woman
“I Can Be and Do Whatever”: Notice how there isn’t a specific woman or television icon assigned to this era. That is because there is not one identity of the millennial woman. Millennial women are world travelers, homemakers, entrepreneurs, Chief Executive Officers (CEOs) and so much more. Yes, we’re in the millennium, but having a millennial mindset or lifestyle isn’t limited or exclusive to millennials. Baby boomers and Generation X are members of the millennial woman lifestyle, too. The Millennial Woman is inclusive and makes sure everyone is heard. This era of women feel less pressure to commit to any idea of life and live as freely as they want. It’s the rebirth of Feminism.
Although Feminism (and Womanism) have been around for decades, more women are proclaiming their belief in that lifestyle. Feminism, as defined my Merriam Webster Dictionary, is the theory of the political, economic, and social equality of the sexes. Feminists are perceived negatively as angry, bitter, and extremist, but it has nothing to do with emotion. Feminism is simply about equality. Men can be Feminist, too.
For so long women have been made to think they have fit into a certain category. You can’t care too much because you’re labeled emotional. Have an opinion? Oh you’re just combative and argumentative. If women continue to progress as they have been recently, then there’s truly no limit to a woman’s capabilities. So the next time you hear “It must be that time of the month”, “why are you being so sensitive?”, “Are you sure you’re going to be able to work, since you’re pregnant and all”, “LADY ON THE FLOOR!” don’t be surprised if a woman reports this to Human Resources rather than smiling and nodding. We’re in the era of progressive women. Anything is possible.